Last year we introduced readers to WL Gore’s proprietary camouflage pattern OPTIFADE Open Country pattern. This year they have introduced a new pattern; Forest which is specifically designed for tree stand hunting in wooded environments. Like the Big Game/Open Country pattern, the new Big Game/Forest pattern is based on how deer see, both spatially and colorimetrically. Incorporating both micro and macro patterns, the unique micro-pattern considers the way a deer or other ungulate perceives color, the ratio of positive to negative space and other visual elements to create an effect that allows the hunter to blend with the animal’s perception of the environment. Whereas, the macro-pattern breaks up the symmetry of the human body so that if a hunter is detected, the animal will not be able to identify the hunter as a predator.
As a bit of a side note, while WL Gore has shown the patterns at military trade shows to gauge interest they have been quite adamant that they are not for use by military forces and furthermore that they are not at work developing a military pattern. Interestingly, their partners in development of both of these patterns have been Guy Cramer and Lt Col Tim O’Neil both well known for the introduction of numerous military patterns into the market. Regardless, the science behind OPTIFADE is solid and now there are two options available for outdoorsmen depending on environment.
OPTIFADE clothing in both patterns is available from Sitka which was recently purchased by WL Gore. Packs in OPTIFADE can also be purchased from Mystery Ranch.
